Argomenti trattati
Growing up in a predominantly non-Jewish neighborhood, my family and I were deeply rooted in the practices and traditions of Judaism. Weekly visits to the synagogue were a cornerstone of our lives. My mother dedicated her time to teaching in both the preschool and Hebrew school, while my father took on the role of a board member, read from the Torah, and served as a High Holiday gabbai. Living just a short stroll away from our place of worship, maintaining a kosher lifestyle, and attending Hebrew school until my confirmation were integral to my upbringing.
However, my surroundings were often a stark contrast to my home life. At school, I found myself among a handful of Jewish peers, which often led to feelings of isolation. I frequently had to pick pepperoni off my pizza, participate in Christmas festivities, and listen to my friends boast about their Easter celebrations while I munched on matzoh. For soccer games, I dashed from Musaf, changed into my uniform in the car, and rushed onto the field. The commitment to Hebrew school three times a week limited my participation in sports, and I held on to the belief that one day I would marry outside my faith and leave my Jewish identity behind for what I imagined would be a more conventional life.
Transformation through connection
Everything changed when I attended my first Kadima convention with USY, an experience that would redefine my path. Surrounded by 300 other Jewish teens, I felt an overwhelming sense of belonging for the first time. The diversity of backgrounds represented—from those who attended day schools to others from different Jewish communities—allowed me to see that my experiences were part of a larger tapestry of Jewish life.
Discovering God in nature
One pivotal moment during this convention occurred during an outdoor shacharit service led by a regional staff member. Here, I was invited to connect with God in a way I had never experienced before. Prior to this, my religious education focused on participation through singing and recitation from the prayer book. That morning, under the dappled sunlight filtering through the trees, I found the courage to express my innermost thoughts. I poured out my struggles, shed tears, and offered up my hopes in prayer. It was then that I realized I could forge a personal connection with the divine.
Engagement in community
This newfound sense of belonging propelled me to become more active in both Kadima and USY. I immersed myself in the melodies of prayers that had always been familiar yet felt distant. I eagerly engaged in community discussions, known as sichot, and attended every convention that came my way. My involvement extended to my local synagogue, where I joined the USY board, worked as a madricha for children with special needs, and took on the role of music teacher and choir director in Hebrew school.
Building a future together
During my senior year, I began dating Alex Berger, a fellow USY member. Our shared experiences and values deepened our bond, leading us to marry and raise a family together. Our commitment to Jewish life only strengthened over the years. Inspired by our involvement in USY, we took on leadership roles in college—Alex became a member of the OMETZ board at the University of Maryland, while I served as the President and later the interim director of VCU Hillel. Our dedication to fostering vibrant Jewish communities has continued as we’ve actively participated in various synagogues, organizing events like Purim carnivals and developing programming for young adults and families.
Returning to my passion
After spending four years balancing freelance design and motherhood, I felt the urge to re-enter the workforce. I dedicated two weeks to refining my résumé and portfolio, and just as I completed this task, a position at USCJ appeared. Seizing this opportunity, I applied through multiple channels, pouring my heart into a compelling cover letter. This role would allow me to merge my passions and contribute to enhancing the Jewish experience within our community. I am profoundly thankful for the timing and the support from the USCJ team that helped turn my aspirations into reality.